ANTIMICROBIAL UTILIZATION STUDY AMONG PEDIATRIC POPULATION IN BENIN CITY; AN OPPORTUNITY FOR ANTIMICROBIAL STEWARDSHIP PRACTICE

ABSTRACT
Introduction: Antimicrobial drug utilization study among pediatric population looks to ascertain antimicrobial prescribing patterns in pediatrics, especially to ensure efficient, rational and cost effective antimicrobial therapy. This study looks to assess and uncover loopholes in the current pediatric antimicrobial drug use and consequently point to opportunities for possible incorporation of rational antimicrobial treatment guidelines and antimicrobial stewardship practice - all geared towards promoting more rational therapy, combating the menace of antimicrobial resistance in pediatrics. Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate antimicrobial drug use in pediatrics with the possibility of introducing an antimicrobial stewardship practice.
Method: This was a Cross-sectional study conducted at the pediatric outpatient pharmacy of Central Hospital, Benin City, Edo state, Nigeria. This study was conducted among 241 paediatric patients visiting the out-patient Pharmacy department of the state Hospital. Inclusion criteria - children below 18 visiting the Central Hospital pediatric outpatient pharmacy. Pediatric inpatients were excluded from this study.
Results: A total number of 241 respondents participated in the study, of which many (46.5%) of the respondents were between the ages of 5 months – 2 years while just 36 (14.9%) were above 12 years old. Pediatric male population dominated with 61% as to 39% for females. Antimicrobials most prescribed Augmentin (n=74, 30.7%), Cefuroxime (n=59, 24.5%), Amoxicillin (n=58, 24.1%). Antimicrobial costs; N1000, n=113(46.9%), N1000 - N2000, n= 103(42.7%) least frequency antimicrobials costing below N1000. The highest antimicrobial cost observed, N4000.
Conclusion: This study gives an overview of antimicrobial use among pediatrics in Benin City. Augmentin, Cefuroxime and Amoxicillin were the most frequently prescribed antimicrobials. URTI was the most prevalent disease, followed by scabies and tonsillitis. Infants (less than 1 month) and children (2 – 12 years) were age groups for which antimicrobials were commonly prescribed. Empiric antimicrobial therapy dominated. All in all, the study provides a drive toward the establishment of antimicrobial stewardship programs.